Kelly (Mitchell) Gardner, 55, of Brockton died peacefully, her family surrounding her, after enduring the cruelty of ALS with the very grit and humor that defined her.

Kelly was born in Stoughton to Wayne and Shay Mitchell and raised in West Bridgewater. She graduated from Champlain College and earned her bachelor's degree at the University of Massachusetts in Boston.

Her early years of work found her in loss prevention, fearlessly chasing would-be thieves, and gathering tales that became entertainment for all. Her skills led to much advancement and her career transitioned to retail safety. She served as a specialist in this area at Stop and Shop and most recently as Deputy Director of Occupational Safety at the MBTA.

Though proud of her accomplishments, they did not define Kelly. The joys of her life were her children: son, Mitchell, and daughter, Carolyn Gardner, who participated lovingly and remarkably, in the care of their mom during her illness. Kelly was a loyal daughter, sister, cousin, niece, and friend; known for her unforgettable wit, and no-nonsense wisdom. Tough on the outside, and never mincing words, there was a huge heart on the inside ready to step up for those who needed her. She was a confidant to many and could be trusted without question. Never derailed by the opinions of others, she confidently followed her own path and did so joyfully. Kelly loved a good workout, was mischievous, had a fiercely competitive spirit, an impeccable sense of style, and liked to indulge in some of the finer things that added some sparkle to life. She loved her tropical vacations and beaches near and far. Nature was in her blood with birds and animals being a special passion. One of her favorite trips was to her mother's home on the Cape, a place filled with many rich summer and family memories. And when her diagnosis came, she accepted it with startling courage, never complained, never asked "why," and approached each day with humor, clear about her wishes throughout – truly an inspiration and a model of embracing life alongside its obstacles.

Kelly is survived by her children, Mitchell and Carolyn Gardner of Brockton; her mother, Shay (Kelly) Mitchell of Harwich; her brothers, Michael Mitchell of Austin, Texas and Daniel Mitchell of Marina Del Rey, California; her loving partner, Donny Ramsay, who played a significant role in caring for Kelly; her former husband, Paul Gardner, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who were family to her. She was predeceased early in her life by her adoring father, Wayne Mitchell.

In her characteristic style, Kelly made known exactly what she wanted upon her passing. As such, visiting hours will take place at the Russell Pica Funeral Home 441 South Main St., West Bridgewater, MA on Wednesday, January 28, from 4-7 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kelly's memory to Old Colony Hospice (321 Manley Street, West Bridgewater, MA 02379) to whom the family is grateful for the exceptional care provided to Kelly for many months.